Introducing Mr. Phoukhaokham, also known as PKK. I have known and worked with PKK for a year during my volunteer placement in Laos, and he has quickly turned from my counterpart to a close friend. PKK is passionate about conservation in Laos and has worked in the field for some 20 years after completing his studies in forestry school in East Germany.
Shortly after I returned to Australia for 2 months, PKK fell ill and drove himself to the Provincial hospital. Hours later he was fighting for his life. PKK was rushed to Thailand for a life saving surgery during which doctors made 3 major incisions into his abdomen. During the surgery, PKK was awake and could observe the incisions made. He discussed the Euro Games with his surgeon at work.
2 months, 12kg lost and $4000 later, PKK has returned home, still unable to return to work for another month to support his family and only just able to eat plain rice.
I have personally undergone two kidney surgeries and know how painful the recovery process is. However, I cannot imagine the financial hardship. I was fortunate enough to have my parents and friends support my recovery, a world class hospital system in Australia, and Private Health Insurance. PKK is not so fortunate.
Seeking $1000 to assist with medical expenses.
Thanks to everyone that has contributed funds for Phoukhaokham. We have received a total of $1510 towards assisting with his medical expenses which will make a huge difference to Phoukhaokham and his family.
ReplyDeleteToday I had the amazing experience of telling Phoukhaokham that my friends, family, colleagues and extended friend groups had donated to help him and his family in their recovery from the surgery. He asked me to write his thank you message to you all.
ReplyDelete"To everybody who has helped me,
By helping me, you have helped my family. I cannot express my feeling to you. I want to thank everybody for their concern and donations. They will help me and my family to get better. I want to say thank you, but it is more than that, more than I know to say in words.
My being sick was not an accident but maybe we can say it was a life accident. In a very short time- 1 or 2 days, everything changed and I didn't know what to do about that. When I was in hospital I did not have the idea that I would get better, that I would be strong again.
Now I have a chance to start again- this has saved me. I am very grateful to everyone.
Yours Truly,
Phoukhaokham "
Thanks again to everyone who has contributed to Mr. Phoukhaokham, nearly $2000AUD has been raised which is well above and beyond the target of $1000!
ReplyDeleteCheers, Joe.